Baked Eggplant with Tomato Sauce
A delicious and healthy dish that combines roasted eggplant with savory tomato sauce, perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in.
Ingredients
For the Eggplant
- 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds Make sure to slice evenly for uniform cooking.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil For brushing the eggplant.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste Season to preference.
For the Tomato Sauce
- 2 cups tomato sauce (homemade or store-bought) You can substitute with pesto for a different flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) Adjust spice level to taste.
For Topping
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan or plant-based cheese (optional) Skip for a vegan option.
- Fresh basil, for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Arrange the eggplant slices in a single layer on the baking sheet. Brush both sides lightly with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
Roasting the Eggplant
- Roast the eggplant in the oven for 20–25 minutes, flipping the slices halfway through, until they’re golden and tender.
Making the Sauce
- While the eggplant bakes, warm the tomato sauce in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes. Let it simmer for 10 minutes.
Assembling the Dish
- In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of the tomato sauce on the bottom. Layer the roasted eggplant slices on top, followed by more sauce. Repeat the layers, finishing with sauce on the top.
- If you like cheese, sprinkle it over the top. Then, bake the dish for an additional 15–20 minutes until bubbly and lightly browned on top.
Serving
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving, and enjoy your warm dish! It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or pasta.
Notes
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through. To reduce bitterness, let the sliced eggplant sit with salt for 30 minutes before rinsing.